Hop a ferry to Cape Lookout National Seashore and see sea oats change color
Take to the air at Carolina Balloonfest in Statesville in October (photo: Seth Roddey)
Explore Grandfather Vineyard's grounds while sipping on a glass of wine
Croatan National Forest pairs brilliant fall foliage with crisp blue coastal waters for a sight to behold
Saddle up and take in stunning fall colors on horseback in Southern Pines
Enjoy miles of color and scenery on a Great Smoky Mountains Railroad excursion
Offseason coastal sunsets give a whole new meaning to fall color
Take in the foliage from the water by renting rowboats, kayaks or canoes at Lake Higgins
Walk behind Dry Falls for an all new point of view near Highlands
16,000-acre Lake Phelps is home to legendary fishing and easy-access boat launch sites
Wander through miles of pathways at the corn maze at Kersey Valley Maize Adventure
Highway 215 in Pisgah National Forest is a beautiful drive in fall

Fall

Experience fall color like never before

In North Carolina, leaves put on a stunning show statewide – but there's so much more to admire this fall besides the colorful trees you can enjoy on our hiking trails. From hopping on family-friendly hayrides after picking pumpkins to watching sunrises and sunsets from the same spot on the beach, there are so many ways to get creative this season. Explore lesser-known adventures and undiscovered destinations all while enjoying the fall flavors at unique events and beer festivals.

Trip Tips

It’s not so much when to see fall color, but where. Varying mountain elevations mean foliage cascades from high to low during the span of more than a month
Many anglers will tell you there’s no better time than fall to fish. Cast your line from one of the 19 ocean piers along our coast
After golfing 18 at Pinehurst Resort, stop by Pinehurst Brewing Company, where they also serve homemade smoked barbecue
Seashells are abundant this time of year, and the best time to find them is the hour on both sides of low tide (just be sure to check local regulations on collecting shells)
To avoid crowds at state and national parks, plan your fall foliage visit during the middle of the week
Experience sweeping mountain views and unobstructed overlooks on The Cherohala Skyway, a National Scenic Byway, in North Carolina’s Great Smoky Mountains

Discover Autumn’s Brilliance at Grandfather Mountain

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker, a curious explorer or a family looking for fall adventure, Grandfather Mountain is your perfect — and scenic — escape.

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